A Quick Trick for Introverts to Reduce Negative Self-Talk

Most introverts are very kind souls . . . except when it comes to being kind to themselves. While all people kick themselves mentally now and then, introverts are particularly prone to negative self-talk. And most of this trash talk is both false and harmful.

To be happy and healthy, you need to get your negative voices under control. So when you find yourself thinking negative thoughts (for example, "I'm not good enough to get this promotion" or "I'm not attractive enough to find a good relationship"), step in and take charge of your mean brain. Here's one of the simplest and most effective ways to do this:

Identify a negative thought.

Develop a counteracting positive thought. If you find this tricky, remember that this can be any positive thought, even if it's not related to your negative thought.

Use the following approach, called "cognitive restructuring":

Let yourself experience the negative thought fully.

Tell yourself to STOP thinking that negative thought.

Replace it with the counteracting positive thought.

Repeat this activity daily for 21 to 30 days in a row. This exercise will allow your positive thought to become a habit.